Skopje, 10 October 2025 (MIA) — SDSM president Venko Filipche told a campaign rally in the Municipality of Gazi Baba ahead of the Oct. 19 local elections that it was time to put the state back into the hands of the people.

"Let's remember why this state exists," Filipche said. "Let's remember that the state has to serve its citizens. Now is the time for courage and faith. Courage is fighting when times are tough. Courage is not being afraid to tell the truth."

"Courage is extending a hand even to those who think differently, because you believe in a shared future," he said.

Filipche also said his party was not fighting against anyone but instead fighting for justice, a decent life and a future in which young people would stay in the country. mr/